Young Fine Gael (YFG) has welcomed the Cabinet’s approval of the Defence (Amendment) Bill, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening Ireland’s defence capabilities and modernising the structures that support the Defence Forces.
YFG said the Bill reflects progress on several of its core priorities, including:
- Strengthen governance and accountability
- Enhancing strategic planning and operational capacity
- Improving conditions that support recruitment, retention, and career progression
- Ensuring Ireland can contribute credibly to European and international security cooperation
YFG President Jamie Malone said the Bill demonstrates a clear commitment to meaningful reform.
“This legislation is an important milestone in modernising the Defence Forces. Young people want to see a defence organisation that is respected, capable, and equipped to protect Ireland and contribute to global stability. This Bill moves us closer to that goal.”
He added that Ireland’s defence policy must keep pace with a rapidly changing security environment.
“Ireland’s security challenges have changed, and our policies must evolve with them. Strengthening governance and improving the structures that support our Defence Forces are essential to building an organisation that can recruit, retain, and support personnel while meeting the expectations of a modern state.”
YFG International Secretary Shane Price stressed the importance of the Bill in the context of Ireland’s international obligations and the ongoing debate around the triple lock, a mechanism YFG has long maintained must be reformed, a position formally adopted by the Party following a YFG-led motion at Ard Fheis.
“Ireland does not stand alone in today’s security environment. Strengthening our Defence Forces is essential not only for our own resilience but also for our credibility as a partner in European and international cooperation. YFG has consistently called for reform of the triple lock, which in its current form can prevent Ireland from participating in legitimate, urgently needed international missions.”
He continued:
“As discussions continue, it is vital that Ireland has the structures and capacity to make timely, responsible decisions about overseas deployments. This Bill supports the reforms needed to ensure Ireland can contribute meaningfully to collective security, humanitarian operations, and the defence of the rules‑based international order.”
YFG also confirmed that it will launch its Defence Policy Document in the coming weeks, outlining a detailed vision for a modern, capable, and internationally engaged Defence Forces.
The organisation reiterated that legislative reform must be matched by sustained investment in personnel, infrastructure, and capabilities.
“Cabinet approval of this Bill is a positive step, but it must be followed by continued delivery. Young Fine Gael will keep advocating for a Defence Forces that is modern, well‑resourced, and fit for purpose in a changing world.”